Guaranteed Tips For Identity Theft Protection

There are a number of forms of identity theft. The fraudulent use of another person's credit card, charging up bills in another's name and seeking work in someone else's name are all examples. Unfortunately, the people who are victims of identity theft are often help responsible for debts and other problems created. This is one of the reasons you need to take steps to protect yourself.

Firstly, we should all recognize the various forms of identity theft and how they occur in order to know how to prevent it from happening. There are many tips for protection against identity theft that we can easily follow such as checking our credit ratings regularly and keeping an eye on our bills for any unusual activity.

- Never give out personal information unless it is to someone that is well known and trusted to you

- Always shred any documents that contain personal information before you throw them out

- Social security numbers are strictly confidential. Never have them (or any other personal identification number like a drivers license) printed on checks

- Don't carry important identification when it isn't necessary as they can be stolen

- Think about taking your information out of the telephone book

- Cancel and destroy all credit cards that you don't use

- If your purse or wallet has been stolen, contact any financial institution that you may have an account with

You can also help protect yourself by keeping important documents locked away in a safe at home or a safety deposit box at your bank. Never share your personal information through unsolicited email or phone calls. If you're traveling, leave a copy of your identification with someone you can contact in case the originals are stolen or lost.

Protecting Yourself Against Identity Theft Online

Protecting yourself on the internet isn't complicated. Make sure you have a current antivirus and spyware scanner on your computer, and keep them updated. Change your passwords on a regular basis and make sure they're hard to guess. Ideally you should use a combination of letters, number and symbols. Never respond to emails asking for private information such as credit card details or account information. Before logging into your bank or credit card website, verify that the website is legitimate.

About the Author

Concerned about identity theft and other types of internet threats? Learn how to set up solid PC security so you don't get taken on the net. Get more tips and safety information at http://www.securitymanor.com